UNN AT 55: SPECIAL FOCUS ON EXCEPTIONAL ALUMNI

Prof. Benjamin C. Ozumba<br />Vice Chancellor, UNN

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) was the first full-fledged indigenous and first autonomous university in Nigeria, modeled upon the American educational system. It is also first land-grant university in Africa and one of the five elite universities in the country.

Though founded in 1955 with the enactment of a law inspired by the then premier of the Eastern region, Dr. Nnamdi Azikwe, however the university did not commence operations until October 7, 1960 when it was officially opened. The university has since then operated in line with the philosophy of its founding fathers, to seek Truth, teach Truth and preserve Truth. With a vision to create a functional, globally competitive and research-focused university which is not just an ivory tower, but responsive to the needs of the society, while delivering world-class education and knowledge, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has remained one of the foremost Nigerian universities that has over the years churned out great men and women of repute who have made their marks in their chosen professions.

True to its motto: “to restore the dignity of man”, this prestigious ivory tower in its 55 years of existence, has built a legacy of excellence, contributed to the advancement of knowledge and has been instrumental to the production of exceptional professionals who have had remarkable impact on the socio-economic and political advancement of Nigeria. Foremost alumni include former governors Peter Obi, Sullivan Chime, Peter Odili and Chimaroke Nnamani. Others are Sen. Chris Ngige, Patrick Utomi, Sen. Ike Ekweremadu, Prof. Charles Soludo, Ms. Arunma Oteh, Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Godwin Emefiele, Mrs Kema Chikwe, Mrs. Fidelia Njeze, and Rev. Chris Okotie amongst several others. Lions and Lionesses as they proudly call themselves, meet some of them in this report. Subsequent editions to follow soon.